By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

If you have a child who will be entering kindergarten, the annual kindergarten round up is set for 6:30 p.m. March 4 at Hays High School.

To enter kindergarten in Hays USD 489, children must be 5 years old on or before Aug. 31, Kerri Lacy, Lincoln Elementary School principal, said in a recent interview on the Morning Blend.

You need to get your child's name on a list for kindergarten. A master list is kept at the district office; you can email jreling@usd489.com to get your child's name on the list.

Hays USD 489 allows family preference when choosing schools, so parents and guardians are asked to list schools in order of preference.&nbsp;

This includes Lincoln, O'Loughlin, Wilson and Roosevelt elementary schools.

Students do not have to attend the school nearest to their home. However, busing restrictions apply.

Families who already have children in an elementary school will be given preference. However, Lacy said most children are placed in their first preference school.

For those parents who don't have any children in the district yet, the district highly recommends parents attend the kindergarten round up.

Parents and guardians will hear from the superintendent, assistant superintendent and all elementary school principals. They will discuss the health paperwork and other documents that the district will need for enrollment, including the child's birth certificate and immunization records.&nbsp;

All kindergarteners also need a physical before they start school.

Spanish translation will be available but no child care. The meeting will last about 20 to 30 minutes.

In the days after the kindergarten roundup meeting, the district will offer tours at the elementary schools during which families can meet principals and teachers.

Those will be on March 5 and 7. See the schedule below.

Lincoln and Wilson elementary schools are set to close after the bond construction is completed. Hays Middle School will be converted into a new elementary school. Lincoln and Wilson will operate as they are now for two complete school years after the completion of this school year, Lacy said.

You can learn more about kindergarten enrollment on the USD 489 website at <a href="https://www.usd489.com/page/usd-489-kindergarten">www.usd489.com/page/usd-489-kindergarten</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707505824138.jpg" alt="Photo courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostIf you have a child who will be entering kindergarten, the annual kindergarten round up is set for 6:30 p.m. March 4 at Hays High School.To enter kindergarten in Hays USD 489, children must be 5 years old on or before Aug. 31, Kerri Lacy, Lincoln Elementary School principal, said in a recent interview on the Morning Blend.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707432430974.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>You need to get your child's name on a list for kindergarten. A master list is kept at the district office; you can email jreling@usd489.com to get your child's name on the list.Hays USD 489 allows family preference when choosing schools, so parents and guardians are asked to list schools in order of preference.&nbsp;This includes Lincoln, O'Loughlin, Wilson and Roosevelt elementary schools.<div><iframe title="Kindergarten round up set for March 4 at Hays High" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=qk2t8-157a920-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>Students do not have to attend the school nearest to their home. However, busing restrictions apply.Families who already have children in an elementary school will be given preference. However, Lacy said most children are placed in their first preference school.For those parents who don't have any children in the district yet, the district highly recommends parents attend the kindergarten round up.Parents and guardians will hear from the superintendent, assistant superintendent and all elementary school principals. They will discuss the health paperwork and other documents that the district will need for enrollment, including the child's birth certificate and immunization records.&nbsp;All kindergarteners also need a physical before they start school.Spanish translation will be available but no child care. The meeting will last about 20 to 30 minutes.In the days after the kindergarten roundup meeting, the district will offer tours at the elementary schools during which families can meet principals and teachers.Those will be on March 5 and 7. See the schedule below.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707432502321.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Lincoln and Wilson elementary schools are set to close after the bond construction is completed. Hays Middle School will be converted into a new elementary school. Lincoln and Wilson will operate as they are now for two complete school years after the completion of this school year, Lacy said.You can learn more about kindergarten enrollment on the USD 489 website at <a href="https://www.usd489.com/page/usd-489-kindergarten">www.usd489.com/page/usd-489-kindergarten</a>.

🎙Kindergarten round up set for March 4 at Hays High

On this episode of the <a href="https://postpodcast.podbean.com/">Post Podcast,</a>&nbsp;Hays Post Reporter Becky Kiser speaks with Fort Hays State University President Tisa Mason and Chair and Professor Center For Applied Technology Kim Stewart about the strategic affiliation with NCK Tech and Northwest Kansas Tech.

<div><iframe title="FHSU shares updates on strategic affiliation with area technical colleges" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=gr9ad-157a962-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the <a href="https://postpodcast.podbean.com/">Post Podcast,</a>&nbsp;Hays Post Reporter Becky Kiser speaks with Fort Hays State University President Tisa Mason and Chair and Professor Center For Applied Technology Kim Stewart about the strategic affiliation with NCK Tech and Northwest Kansas Tech.

🎙 Post Podcast: FHSU shares updates on strategic affiliation with area technical colleges

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Ellis County Sheriff Scott Braun discusses a jail assessment with Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney.

<div><iframe title="Sheriff Bruan discusses jail expansion" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=mg4fb-1579ccd-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Ellis County Sheriff Scott Braun discusses a jail assessment with Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney.

🎙 Post Podcast: Sheriff Braun discuses jail expansion survey

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Hays superintendent Ron Wilson.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gC89geLkiYw?si=j2XpFKUN20ehxGKJ" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Hays superintendent Ron Wilson.

🎤Forward Ever: USD 489 superintendent Ron Wilson

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Post reporter Becky Kiser speaks with Downtown Hays Development Corp. executive director Julie Rider about upcoming events.

<div><iframe title="DHDC plans spring events" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=aayze-157432e-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Post reporter Becky Kiser speaks with Downtown Hays Development Corp. executive director Julie Rider about upcoming events.

🎙 DHDC plans spring events

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The Heartland Community Foundation is in the midst of its 2024 Match Month fundraising campaign.

During the month of February, all donations to the foundation's County Legacy Funds will be matched 300 percent. Heartland serves Ellis, Rooks and Trego counties.&nbsp;

The Dane G. Hansen Foundation, Logan, is providing a match of $2 for every $1 donated. The Patterson Family Foundation, Kansas City, is contributing $1 for every $1 donation.&nbsp;

The matches can be stacked, so a $100 donation becomes $400.

Every dollar raised remains in the community where it is given, said Sara Meitner, Heartland Community Foundation executive director.&nbsp;

"They are our unrestricted funds that we use to make grants to a wide variety of organizations for their charitable projects," she said.&nbsp;

"The granting committees in all three counties try really hard to find diversified recipients. They look at what's been given to community development, to our seniors, to art, culture and history, to food scarcity, to other things that are also important," Meitner said. "They're asking these questions and trying to be very concerted with how those grant dollars are spent so that it is benefiting everybody."

This year's goal is to raise $70,000 in each of the three counties served by Heartland Community Foundation.

Last year's Match Month campaign raised a total of $513,773.&nbsp;

"This is a way to make a lasting difference in your community," Meitner said.

Donations may be given online at <a href="https://heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/">www.heartlandcommunityfoundation.org</a>, or dropped off at the foundation office at 1200 Main, Suite 102, in Hays, between Feb. 1 and 29.

Donors who give to the campaign on or before Feb. 15 will be entered to win $500 in a drawing. Donations of $500 or more will receive an extra entry in the drawing. The prize dollars were provided by a donor.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685631910392.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe Heartland Community Foundation is in the midst of its 2024 Match Month fundraising campaign.During the month of February, all donations to the foundation's County Legacy Funds will be matched 300 percent. Heartland serves Ellis, Rooks and Trego counties.&nbsp;The Dane G. Hansen Foundation, Logan, is providing a match of $2 for every $1 donated. The Patterson Family Foundation, Kansas City, is contributing $1 for every $1 donation.&nbsp;<div><iframe title="Donations to Heartland Foundation matched 300% during February" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=jipfe-1570d21-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>The matches can be stacked, so a $100 donation becomes $400.Every dollar raised remains in the community where it is given, said Sara Meitner, Heartland Community Foundation executive director.&nbsp;"They are our unrestricted funds that we use to make grants to a wide variety of organizations for their charitable projects," she said.&nbsp;"The granting committees in all three counties try really hard to find diversified recipients. They look at what's been given to community development, to our seniors, to art, culture and history, to food scarcity, to other things that are also important," Meitner said. "They're asking these questions and trying to be very concerted with how those grant dollars are spent so that it is benefiting everybody."This year's goal is to raise $70,000 in each of the three counties served by Heartland Community Foundation.Last year's Match Month campaign raised a total of $513,773.&nbsp;"This is a way to make a lasting difference in your community," Meitner said.Donations may be given online at <a href="https://heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/">www.heartlandcommunityfoundation.org</a>, or dropped off at the foundation office at 1200 Main, Suite 102, in Hays, between Feb. 1 and 29.Donors who give to the campaign on or before Feb. 15 will be entered to win $500 in a drawing. Donations of $500 or more will receive an extra entry in the drawing. The prize dollars were provided by a donor.

🎙  Donations to Heartland Foundation matched 300% during February 

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad President and General Manager Ross Boelling.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/W-soXIXjtDs?si=N0_49O7NxWvAx4iW" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad President and General Manager Ross Boelling.

🎤Forward Ever: A&SV Railroad president Ross Boelling

The Thomas More Prep-Marian Singers will have their dinner/dessert "Seasons 2024" shows this weekend.

The dinner show will be at 6 p.m. Saturday at TMP. The show will be in the Dreiling Theater. Tickets are $25. The meal will include fried chicken and mashed potatoes provided by JD's Chicken. The show begins at 7 p.m.

The dessert show will be at 2 p.m. Sunday also at TMP. Desserts from the Rose Garden Banquet Hall will be provided after the show in the cafeteria.

Tickets are available at the school, online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tmp-m.org/">tmp-m.org</a>&nbsp;or at the door on the days of the shows.

Katy Whalen, director of the TMP Singers, said the show will include large group numbers, solos and duets. The group consists of eight girls and eight boys freshmen through seniors who audition for spots in the group.

Audience members will enjoy hits from the 1970s through 2015, including Twenty One Pilots, Mamas &amp; the Papas as well as music theater.

"If you like music and you like dancing and want a fun, energetic show, you should come out and see us," Whalen said.

The event this weekend is the largest fundraiser for the group during the year. Money raised through the event will be used for travel for the group, which plans a trip every two years. Next year's trip destination has yet to be set. Over the summer, the group went to Nashville.

Whalen is in her first year teaching at TMP. She just graduated from Fort Hays State University with her music performance degree. She is a 2018 TMP grad and was in the Singers when she was in school.

"I'm so proud to see how far they have come from their first rehearsal back in August," Whalen said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706822946177.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Thomas More Prep-Marian Singers will have their dinner/dessert "Seasons 2024" shows this weekend.The dinner show will be at 6 p.m. Saturday at TMP. The show will be in the Dreiling Theater. Tickets are $25. The meal will include fried chicken and mashed potatoes provided by JD's Chicken. The show begins at 7 p.m.The dessert show will be at 2 p.m. Sunday also at TMP. Desserts from the Rose Garden Banquet Hall will be provided after the show in the cafeteria.Tickets are available at the school, online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tmp-m.org/">tmp-m.org</a>&nbsp;or at the door on the days of the shows.<div><iframe title="TMP Singers plan dinner/dessert shows" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=k62ie-156bb87-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>Katy Whalen, director of the TMP Singers, said the show will include large group numbers, solos and duets. The group consists of eight girls and eight boys freshmen through seniors who audition for spots in the group.Audience members will enjoy hits from the 1970s through 2015, including Twenty One Pilots, Mamas &amp; the Papas as well as music theater."If you like music and you like dancing and want a fun, energetic show, you should come out and see us," Whalen said.The event this weekend is the largest fundraiser for the group during the year. Money raised through the event will be used for travel for the group, which plans a trip every two years. Next year's trip destination has yet to be set. Over the summer, the group went to Nashville.Whalen is in her first year teaching at TMP. She just graduated from Fort Hays State University with her music performance degree. She is a 2018 TMP grad and was in the Singers when she was in school."I'm so proud to see how far they have come from their first rehearsal back in August," Whalen said.

🎙 TMP Singers set dinner/dessert shows this weekend

The January weather has been a mixed bag for local agriculture producers.

"The cattle guys are really the ones that are impacted, of course," said Stacy Campbell, Cottonwood Extension District agriculture agent for Ellis and Barton counties. "I think they're faring OK."

He said some ranchers had cattle still out feeding on crop stalks when the extremely cold temperatures and snow hit a little more than two weeks ago.&nbsp;

"But I heard them say, 'We got to get them home.' So, I think everybody got them home and off stalks. They do that during the winter because it's calving time, too," Campbell said.

"I think everybody's in pretty good shape, and we love the moisture, so I haven't heard anybody complaining. It's just going to get a little messy and muddy for a while."

Hays received almost 9 inches of snow on Jan. 8 and 9, according to the National Weather Service in Dodge City. The storm started with rainfall. Another 2 inches of snow fell on Jan. 15 as a <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/08cd4ea9-5055-4f85-bc35-c443126638d7">record overnight low</a> of -14 degrees was set.

Temperatures have been well below freezing for most days since the beginning of the year. On Wednesday, 1 to 2 inches of snow still remained on the ground, as officially measured at the K-State Agricultural Center on the south edge of Hays.

"Overall, the moisture has been great," Campbell said. "We need more of it, of course. A lot of the ponds dried up last year, so that's still a big question, but hopefully, we'll get some spring rains.

"Right now, we should get off to a good start this early spring."&nbsp;

That's good news for local wheat farmers.&nbsp;

Records at the research center show the 154-year cumulative average of January moisture in Hays is 0.45. As of Thursday, Hays had received 1.21 inches of precipitation.

All of Ellis County was reported to be out of extreme drought for the first time in months as of the Jan. 12 report from the U.S. Drought Monitor.&nbsp; However, most of the county still remains in moderate drought according to the Jan. 25 report.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706112542012.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy Kansas State Research and Extension" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Kansas State Research and Extension</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe January weather has been a mixed bag for local agriculture producers."The cattle guys are really the ones that are impacted, of course," said Stacy Campbell, Cottonwood Extension District agriculture agent for Ellis and Barton counties. "I think they're faring OK."He said some ranchers had cattle still out feeding on crop stalks when the extremely cold temperatures and snow hit a little more than two weeks ago.&nbsp;<div><iframe title="Cottonwood Extension plans producer events" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=ur6sr-155ed80-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe><iframe title="Cottonwood Extension plans producer events" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=ur6sr-155ed80-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>"But I heard them say, 'We got to get them home.' So, I think everybody got them home and off stalks. They do that during the winter because it's calving time, too," Campbell said."I think everybody's in pretty good shape, and we love the moisture, so I haven't heard anybody complaining. It's just going to get a little messy and muddy for a while."Hays received almost 9 inches of snow on Jan. 8 and 9, according to the National Weather Service in Dodge City. The storm started with rainfall. Another 2 inches of snow fell on Jan. 15 as a <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/08cd4ea9-5055-4f85-bc35-c443126638d7">record overnight low</a> of -14 degrees was set. Temperatures have been well below freezing for most days since the beginning of the year. On Wednesday, 1 to 2 inches of snow still remained on the ground, as officially measured at the K-State Agricultural Center on the south edge of Hays."Overall, the moisture has been great," Campbell said. "We need more of it, of course. A lot of the ponds dried up last year, so that's still a big question, but hopefully, we'll get some spring rains."Right now, we should get off to a good start this early spring."&nbsp;That's good news for local wheat farmers.&nbsp;Records at the research center show the 154-year cumulative average of January moisture in Hays is 0.45. As of Thursday, Hays had received 1.21 inches of precipitation.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706195701548.png" alt="Kansas drought report for Jan. 25. Most of Ellis County still remains in moderate drought despite higher than average precipitation so far in January. U.S. Drought Monitor" />
 <figcaption>Kansas drought report for Jan. 25. Most of Ellis County still remains in moderate drought despite higher than average precipitation so far in January. U.S. Drought Monitor</figcaption>
 </figure>All of Ellis County was reported to be out of extreme drought for the first time in months as of the Jan. 12 report from the U.S. Drought Monitor.&nbsp; However, most of the county still remains in moderate drought according to the Jan. 25 report.&nbsp;

🎙 CAMPBELL: Winter weather hard on cattle ranchers; moisture still welcomed   

On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;Hays Post Editor Cristina Janney discusses the Ellis County housing market with Grow Hays Executive Director Doug Williams.

<div><iframe title="Grow Hays shares housing market updates" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=rv87y-1563a4a-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;Hays Post Editor Cristina Janney discusses the Ellis County housing market with Grow Hays Executive Director Doug Williams.

🎙 Post Podcast: Grow Hays shares housing market updates

<a href="http://www.hayschamber.com">The Chamber in Hays</a>&nbsp;is set to once again give area residents the opportunity to speak directly with area leaders during the 2024 Legislative Coffee series.

The first session is scheduled to begin at 8:30 a.m. Saturday at the Hays Public Library, 1205 Main.

The series is free and open to the public.

Sarah Wasinger, president and CEO of the Chamber, said the annual series is one of the most important endeavors of the year for the Chamber.

"The Legislative Coffee session serves as a crucial platform for citizens to stay informed about legislative developments in our area,” Wasinger said. “It is an invaluable opportunity to have a direct dialogue with our legislators, enabling the community to voice concerns and seek clarification on important matters."

The session invites attendees to pose questions to individual legislators or the panel as a whole, creating a dynamic and interactive environment. This engagement fosters a sense of transparency and accountability, essential for a thriving democratic society, she said.

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our legislative premier sponsors, Midwest Energy and the Hays Daily News, for their generous support in making this event possible,” Wasinger said. “Their commitment to community engagement aligns with the mission of the Chamber, reinforcing the importance of collaboration between local businesses and the legislative process.

The library will also host the March 2 and April 6 sessions, providing a welcoming and accessible venue for the community to come together.

“We appreciate the library's dedication to facilitating civic discourse and community involvement,” Wasinger said.

To enhance the experience for attendees, questions can be submitted in advance by emailing hayscc@hayschamber.com. Questions received by noon on the Friday before each event will be considered for inclusion.

“We encourage everyone to join us for an informative and engaging session that strengthens the bond between citizens and their representatives,” Wasinger said.

For more information about the Legislative Coffee series, or the Chamber, <a href="http://www.hayschamber.com">visit hayschamber.com.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646612730538.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="The Chamber in Hays, Kansas plans 2024 Legislative Coffee series" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=6qvp4-155edac-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>Submitted<a href="http://www.hayschamber.com">The Chamber in Hays</a>&nbsp;is set to once again give area residents the opportunity to speak directly with area leaders during the 2024 Legislative Coffee series.The first session is scheduled to begin at 8:30 a.m. Saturday at the Hays Public Library, 1205 Main.The series is free and open to the public.Sarah Wasinger, president and CEO of the Chamber, said the annual series is one of the most important endeavors of the year for the Chamber."The Legislative Coffee session serves as a crucial platform for citizens to stay informed about legislative developments in our area,” Wasinger said. “It is an invaluable opportunity to have a direct dialogue with our legislators, enabling the community to voice concerns and seek clarification on important matters."The session invites attendees to pose questions to individual legislators or the panel as a whole, creating a dynamic and interactive environment. This engagement fosters a sense of transparency and accountability, essential for a thriving democratic society, she said.“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our legislative premier sponsors, Midwest Energy and the Hays Daily News, for their generous support in making this event possible,” Wasinger said. “Their commitment to community engagement aligns with the mission of the Chamber, reinforcing the importance of collaboration between local businesses and the legislative process.The library will also host the March 2 and April 6 sessions, providing a welcoming and accessible venue for the community to come together.“We appreciate the library's dedication to facilitating civic discourse and community involvement,” Wasinger said.To enhance the experience for attendees, questions can be submitted in advance by emailing hayscc@hayschamber.com. Questions received by noon on the Friday before each event will be considered for inclusion.“We encourage everyone to join us for an informative and engaging session that strengthens the bond between citizens and their representatives,” Wasinger said.For more information about the Legislative Coffee series, or the Chamber, <a href="http://www.hayschamber.com">visit hayschamber.com.</a>

🎙Chamber in Hays plans Legislative Coffee series

On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;Hays Post Reporter Becky Kiser discusses updates on the R9 ranch project with City Manager Toby Dougherty and Mayor Shaun Musil.

<div><iframe title="R9 loan process underway" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=bkbqr-1563a37-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;Hays Post Reporter Becky Kiser discusses updates on the R9 ranch project with City Manager Toby Dougherty and Mayor Shaun Musil.

🎙 Post Podcast: R9 loan process underway

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with U.S. Senator Roger Marshall.&nbsp;

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rKCM-ZYibfo?si=3Yp0xymsJ9uhNLiV" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with U.S. Senator Roger Marshall.&nbsp;

🎤Forward Ever: U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall

The Chamber in Hays, Kansas is
excited to announce three spots remain open for the upcoming Leadership Hays
2024 series. 

The program, under the guidance
of The Chamber, aims to improve and strengthen individuals as well as the Hays
community by identifying, inspiring, and involving those who have displayed a
capacity for leadership.

President and CEO Sarah Wasinger
emphasizes the significance of Leadership Hays in contributing to the growth
and development of both individuals and the community. 

"Leadership Hays is not just
a program; it's a transformative experience that equips participants with the
skills and insights needed to lead effectively in the 21st century,"
Wasinger said.

Leadership
Hays mission and objectives

Wasinger said the mission of
Leadership Hays is to improve and strengthen individuals and the Hays community
by identifying, inspiring, and involving those with leadership potential and
has specific objectives to achieve that aim: 

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Identify and
motivate individuals committed to leadership and community trusteeship.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Acquaint
participants with the community's continuing needs, challenges, and resources.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Offer
opportunities for participants to explore and strengthen their personal
leadership competencies.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Develop a
format for ongoing communication among emerging and established leaders.

Benefiting
the Community: A tradition of excellence

Each year, the Leadership Hays
class engages in a meaningful project that directly benefits children in the
Hays community or the surrounding area. This initiative underscores the
program's commitment to making a positive impact on the community and fostering
a sense of responsibility among its participants.

Key dates
for Leadership Hays 2024

The upcoming series of Leadership
Hays sessions will take place on the following dates at the Hays Welcome
Center, unless otherwise noted:

Wednesday, February 28 from 8
a.m. to 5 p.m.

Wednesday, March 6 from 8:30 a.m.
to 12:30 p.m.

Wednesday, March 20 from 8:30
a.m. to 12:30 p.m. - Location TBD

Wednesday, April 3 from 8:30 a.m.
to 12:30 p.m. - Travel to Wichita evening of April 21st / Conference on April
22nd and April 23rd for KLC Your Leadership Edge Workshop

Wednesday, May 1 from 8:30 a.m.
to 12:30 p.m.

Wednesday, May 15 from 8:30 a.m.
to 12:30 p.m.

Wednesday, May 29 - Back Up Class
Date from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Graduation - Friday, May 31 -
noon to 1 p.m. at Rose Garden Banquet Hall &amp; Catering

Those wishing to find out more or
register can contact The Chamber at (785) 628-8201 or visit their website, <a href="http://www.hayschamber.com">hayschamber.com.</a>

<div><iframe title="The Chamber in Hays, Kansas plans 2024 Leadership Hays series" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=jcq64-15508bf-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>SubmittedThe Chamber in Hays, Kansas is
excited to announce three spots remain open for the upcoming Leadership Hays
2024 series. The program, under the guidance
of The Chamber, aims to improve and strengthen individuals as well as the Hays
community by identifying, inspiring, and involving those who have displayed a
capacity for leadership.President and CEO Sarah Wasinger
emphasizes the significance of Leadership Hays in contributing to the growth
and development of both individuals and the community. "Leadership Hays is not just
a program; it's a transformative experience that equips participants with the
skills and insights needed to lead effectively in the 21st century,"
Wasinger said.Leadership
Hays mission and objectivesWasinger said the mission of
Leadership Hays is to improve and strengthen individuals and the Hays community
by identifying, inspiring, and involving those with leadership potential and
has specific objectives to achieve that aim: ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Identify and
motivate individuals committed to leadership and community trusteeship.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Acquaint
participants with the community's continuing needs, challenges, and resources.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Offer
opportunities for participants to explore and strengthen their personal
leadership competencies.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Develop a
format for ongoing communication among emerging and established leaders.Benefiting
the Community: A tradition of excellenceEach year, the Leadership Hays
class engages in a meaningful project that directly benefits children in the
Hays community or the surrounding area. This initiative underscores the
program's commitment to making a positive impact on the community and fostering
a sense of responsibility among its participants.Key dates
for Leadership Hays 2024The upcoming series of Leadership
Hays sessions will take place on the following dates at the Hays Welcome
Center, unless otherwise noted:Wednesday, February 28 from 8
a.m. to 5 p.m.Wednesday, March 6 from 8:30 a.m.
to 12:30 p.m.Wednesday, March 20 from 8:30
a.m. to 12:30 p.m. - Location TBDWednesday, April 3 from 8:30 a.m.
to 12:30 p.m. - Travel to Wichita evening of April 21st / Conference on April
22nd and April 23rd for KLC Your Leadership Edge WorkshopWednesday, May 1 from 8:30 a.m.
to 12:30 p.m.Wednesday, May 15 from 8:30 a.m.
to 12:30 p.m.Wednesday, May 29 - Back Up Class
Date from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.Graduation - Friday, May 31 -
noon to 1 p.m. at Rose Garden Banquet Hall &amp; CateringThose wishing to find out more or
register can contact The Chamber at (785) 628-8201 or visit their website, <a href="http://www.hayschamber.com">hayschamber.com.</a>

🎙Three spots remain for Leadership Hays 2024

On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;Hays Post reporter Becky Kiser speaks with Holy Family Elementary teacher Hannah Augustine about Catholic Schools Week.

<div><iframe title="Hays Catholic Schools prepare for Catholic School Week activities" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=6p4jr-155ed33-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;Hays Post reporter Becky Kiser speaks with Holy Family Elementary teacher Hannah Augustine about Catholic Schools Week.

🎙 Post Podcast: Hays Catholic Schools prepare for Catholic School Week activities

The Hays Public Library recently released the top circulated nonfiction and fiction books for 2023.

"For the first time, Prince Harry tells his own story, chronicling his journey with raw, unflinching honesty.&nbsp;A landmark publication, "Spare"&nbsp;is full of insight, revelation, self-examination and hard-won wisdom&nbsp;about the eternal power of love over grief." — Hays Public Library

2. "I'M GLAD MY MOM DIED" by JENNETTE MCCURDY

"Jennette McCurdy was six years old when she had her first acting audition. Her mother's dream was for her only daughter to become a star, and Jennette would do anything to make her mother happy. So she went along with what Mom called "calorie restriction," eating little and weighing herself five times a day. She endured extensive at-home makeovers while Mom chided, "Your eyelashes are invisible, okay? You think Dakota Fanning doesn't tint hers?" She was even showered by Mom until age sixteen while sharing her diaries, email, and all her income."&nbsp;— Hays Public Library

3. "KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON" by DAVID GRANN

"In the 1920s, the richest people per capita in the world were members of the Osage Nation in Oklahoma.&nbsp;After oil was discovered beneath their land, the Osage rode in chauffeured automobiles, built mansions, and sent their children to study in Europe.

"Then, one by one, the Osage began to be killed off.&nbsp;As the death toll surpassed more than twenty-four Osage, the newly created F.B.I. took up the case, in what became one of the organization's first major homicide investigations. An undercover team, including one of the only Native American agents in the bureau, infiltrated the region, struggling to adopt the latest modern techniques of detection to bring an end to the deadly crime spree. Together with the Osage they began to expose one of the most chilling conspiracies in American history."&nbsp;— Hays Public Library

4. "FRIENDS, LOVERS, AND THE BIG TERRIBLE THING" by&nbsp; MATTHEW PERRY

"In an extraordinary story that only he could tell — and in the heartfelt, hilarious, and warmly familiar way only he could tell it — Matthew Perry lays bare the fractured family that raised him (and also left him to his own devices), the desire for recognition that drove him to fame, and the void inside him that could not be filled even by his greatest dreams coming true. But he also details the peace he's found in sobriety and how he feels about the ubiquity of&nbsp;Friends, sharing stories about his castmates and other stars he met along the way."&nbsp;— Hays Public Library

5. "THE LIGHT WE CARRY" by MICHELLE OBAMA

"There may be no tidy solutions or pithy answers to life's big challenges, but Michelle Obama believes that we can all locate and lean on a set of tools to help us better navigate change and remain steady within flux.

 In "The Light We Carry,"&nbsp;she opens a frank and honest dialogue with readers, considering the questions many of us wrestle with: How do we build enduring and honest relationships? How can we discover strength and community inside our differences? What tools do we use to address feelings of self-doubt or helplessness? What do we do when it all starts to feel like too much?" —&nbsp;Hays Public Library

"From the author of 'Killers of the Flower Moon,' a page-turning story of shipwreck, survival and savagery, culminating in a court martial&nbsp;that reveals a shocking truth. The powerful narrative reveals the deeper meaning of the events on 'The Wager,' showing that it was not only the&nbsp;captain and crew who ended up on trial but the very idea of empire." —&nbsp;Hays Public Library

"No matter your goals, "Atomic Habits"&nbsp;offers a proven framework for improving—every day. James Clear, one of the world's leading experts on habit formation, reveals practical strategies that will teach you exactly how to form good habits, break bad ones, and master the tiny behaviors that lead to remarkable results." —&nbsp;Hays Public Library

8. "BREATHE IN, BREATHE OUT" by STUART SANDEMAN

"The internationally bestselling practical guide on how to breathe for better sleep, stress management, improved self-esteem and to care for your mental health."&nbsp;— Hays Public Library

9. "GREENLIGHTS" by MATTHEW MCCONAUGHEY

"Discover the memoir that has inspired millions of readers through&nbsp;the Academy Award-winning actor's unflinching honesty, unconventional wisdom, and&nbsp;lessons learned the hard way&nbsp;about living with greater satisfaction."&nbsp;— Hays Public Library

10. "THE CREATIVE ACT" by RICK RUBIN

"Many famed music producers are known for a particular sound that has its day. Rick Rubin is known for something else: creating a space where artists of all different genres and traditions can hone in on who they really are and what they really offer. He has made a practice of helping people transcend their self-imposed expectations in order to reconnect with a state of innocence from which the surprising becomes inevitable. 

"Over the years, as he has thought deeply about where creativity comes from and where it doesn't, he has learned that being an artist isn't about your specific output, it's about your relationship to the world. Creativity has a place in everyone's life, and everyone can make that place larger. In fact, there are few more important responsibilities." — Hays Public Library

1. "IT ENDS WITH US" by&nbsp; COLLEEN HOOVER —&nbsp;ROMANCE

"From the #1&nbsp;New York Times&nbsp;bestselling author of 'It&nbsp;Starts with Us&nbsp;and&nbsp;All Your Perfects, a 'brave and heartbreaking novel that digs its claws into you and doesn't let go, long after you've finished it' (Anna Todd,&nbsp;New York Times&nbsp;bestselling author) about a workaholic with a too-good-to-be-true romance can't stop thinking about her first love—soon to be a major motion picture starring Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni." — Hays Public Library

2. "FIREFLY LANE"&nbsp; by KRISTIN HANNAH

Kristin Hannah's 'Firefly Lane' became a touchstone novel in women's lives. Across the world, women embraced the story of Tully and Kate's enduring friendship. They laughed with Tully and cried with Kate and anguished over Tully's fractured relationship with her mother." — Hays Public Library&nbsp;

3. "IT STARTS WITH US" by&nbsp;COLLEEN HOOVER — ROMANCE

"Lily and her ex-husband, Ryle, have just settled into a civil co-parenting rhythm when she suddenly bumps into her first love, Atlas, again. After nearly two years separated, she is elated that for once, time is on their side, and she immediately says yes when Atlas asks her on a date." — Hays Public Library&nbsp;

"In 'Fly Away', the second in the Firefly Lane series, Kristin Hannah returns to the world of unforgettable characters and asks the question, How do you hold yourself together when your world has fallen apart? 

"'Fly Away' is the story of three women who have lost their way and need each other—plus a miracle—to transform their lives. An emotionally complex, heart wrenching novel about love, family, motherhood, loss, and redemption, "Fly Away" reminds us that where there is life, there is hope and where there is love, there is forgiveness." — Hays Public Library

5. "THE SEVEN HUSBANDS OF EVELYN HUGO" by TAYLOR JENKINS REID

"Aging and reclusive Hollywood movie icon Evelyn Hugo is finally ready to tell the truth about her glamorous and scandalous life. But when she chooses unknown magazine reporter Monique Grant for the job, no one is more astounded than Monique herself. Why her? Why now?" — Hays Public Library

6. "BAD SUMMER PEOPLE" by EMMA ROSENBLUM

"Emma Rosenblum's 'Bad Summer People'&nbsp; is a whip-smart, propulsive debut about infidelity, backstabbing, and murderous intrigue, set against an exclusive summer haven on Fire Island." — Hays Public Library

7. "THE LAST THING HE TOLD ME" by LAURA DAVE — THRILLER

"Before Owen Michaels disappears, he smuggles a note to his beloved wife of one year: 'Protect her.' Despite her confusion and fear, Hannah Hall knows exactly to whom the note refers—Owen's sixteen-year-old daughter, Bailey. Bailey, who lost her mother tragically as a child. Bailey, who wants absolutely nothing to do with her new stepmother." — Hays Public Library

8. "STORM WATCH" by C.J. BOX — MYSTERY

"Wyoming Game Warden Joe Pickett investigates a mysterious death at a secret remote high-tech facility."&nbsp;— Hays Public Library

9. "VERITY" by COLLEEN HOOVER — THRILLER

"Lowen Ashleigh is a struggling writer on the brink of financial ruin when she accepts the job offer of a lifetime. Jeremy Crawford, husband of bestselling author Verity Crawford, has hired Lowen to complete the remaining books in a successful series his injured wife is unable to finish.

"Lowen arrives at the Crawford home, ready to sort through years of Verity's notes and outlines, hoping to find enough material to get her started. What Lowen doesn't expect to uncover in the chaotic office is an unfinished autobiography Verity never intended for anyone to read. Page after page of bone-chilling admissions, including Verity's recollection of the night her family was forever altered." — Hays Public Library

10. "REMINDERS OF HIM" by COLLEEN HOOVER

"After serving five years in prison for a tragic mistake, Kenna Rowan returns to the town where it all went wrong, hoping to reunite with her four-year-old daughter. But the bridges Kenna burned are proving impossible to rebuild. Everyone in her daughter's life is determined to shut Kenna out, no matter how hard she works to prove herself." — Hays Public Library

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586134292045.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Hays Public Library offers Adulting 101" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=n2imu-155089a-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>The Hays Public Library recently released the top circulated nonfiction and fiction books for 2023.<h2>Nonfiction</h2>1. "SPARE" by PRINCE HARRY"For the first time, Prince Harry tells his own story, chronicling his journey with raw, unflinching honesty.&nbsp;A landmark publication, "Spare"&nbsp;is full of insight, revelation, self-examination and hard-won wisdom&nbsp;about the eternal power of love over grief." — Hays Public Library2. "I'M GLAD MY MOM DIED" by JENNETTE MCCURDY"Jennette McCurdy was six years old when she had her first acting audition. Her mother's dream was for her only daughter to become a star, and Jennette would do anything to make her mother happy. So she went along with what Mom called "calorie restriction," eating little and weighing herself five times a day. She endured extensive at-home makeovers while Mom chided, "Your eyelashes are invisible, okay? You think Dakota Fanning doesn't tint hers?" She was even showered by Mom until age sixteen while sharing her diaries, email, and all her income."&nbsp;— Hays Public Library3. "KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON" by DAVID GRANN"In the 1920s, the richest people per capita in the world were members of the Osage Nation in Oklahoma.&nbsp;After oil was discovered beneath their land, the Osage rode in chauffeured automobiles, built mansions, and sent their children to study in Europe."Then, one by one, the Osage began to be killed off.&nbsp;As the death toll surpassed more than twenty-four Osage, the newly created F.B.I. took up the case, in what became one of the organization's first major homicide investigations. An undercover team, including one of the only Native American agents in the bureau, infiltrated the region, struggling to adopt the latest modern techniques of detection to bring an end to the deadly crime spree. Together with the Osage they began to expose one of the most chilling conspiracies in American history."&nbsp;— Hays Public Library4. "FRIENDS, LOVERS, AND THE BIG TERRIBLE THING" by&nbsp; MATTHEW PERRY"In an extraordinary story that only he could tell — and in the heartfelt, hilarious, and warmly familiar way only he could tell it — Matthew Perry lays bare the fractured family that raised him (and also left him to his own devices), the desire for recognition that drove him to fame, and the void inside him that could not be filled even by his greatest dreams coming true. But he also details the peace he's found in sobriety and how he feels about the ubiquity of&nbsp;Friends, sharing stories about his castmates and other stars he met along the way."&nbsp;— Hays Public Library5. "THE LIGHT WE CARRY" by MICHELLE OBAMA"There may be no tidy solutions or pithy answers to life's big challenges, but Michelle Obama believes that we can all locate and lean on a set of tools to help us better navigate change and remain steady within flux. In "The Light We Carry,"&nbsp;she opens a frank and honest dialogue with readers, considering the questions many of us wrestle with: How do we build enduring and honest relationships? How can we discover strength and community inside our differences? What tools do we use to address feelings of self-doubt or helplessness? What do we do when it all starts to feel like too much?" —&nbsp;Hays Public Library6. "THE WAGER" by DAVID GRANN"From the author of 'Killers of the Flower Moon,' a page-turning story of shipwreck, survival and savagery, culminating in a court martial&nbsp;that reveals a shocking truth. The powerful narrative reveals the deeper meaning of the events on 'The Wager,' showing that it was not only the&nbsp;captain and crew who ended up on trial but the very idea of empire." —&nbsp;Hays Public Library7. "ATOMIC HABITS" by JAMES CLEAR"No matter your goals, "Atomic Habits"&nbsp;offers a proven framework for improving—every day. James Clear, one of the world's leading experts on habit formation, reveals practical strategies that will teach you exactly how to form good habits, break bad ones, and master the tiny behaviors that lead to remarkable results." —&nbsp;Hays Public Library8. "BREATHE IN, BREATHE OUT" by STUART SANDEMAN"The internationally bestselling practical guide on how to breathe for better sleep, stress management, improved self-esteem and to care for your mental health."&nbsp;— Hays Public Library9. "GREENLIGHTS" by MATTHEW MCCONAUGHEY"Discover the memoir that has inspired millions of readers through&nbsp;the Academy Award-winning actor's unflinching honesty, unconventional wisdom, and&nbsp;lessons learned the hard way&nbsp;about living with greater satisfaction."&nbsp;— Hays Public Library10. "THE CREATIVE ACT" by RICK RUBIN"Many famed music producers are known for a particular sound that has its day. Rick Rubin is known for something else: creating a space where artists of all different genres and traditions can hone in on who they really are and what they really offer. He has made a practice of helping people transcend their self-imposed expectations in order to reconnect with a state of innocence from which the surprising becomes inevitable. "Over the years, as he has thought deeply about where creativity comes from and where it doesn't, he has learned that being an artist isn't about your specific output, it's about your relationship to the world. Creativity has a place in everyone's life, and everyone can make that place larger. In fact, there are few more important responsibilities." — Hays Public Library<h2>Fiction</h2>1. "IT ENDS WITH US" by&nbsp; COLLEEN HOOVER —&nbsp;ROMANCE"From the #1&nbsp;New York Times&nbsp;bestselling author of 'It&nbsp;Starts with Us&nbsp;and&nbsp;All Your Perfects, a 'brave and heartbreaking novel that digs its claws into you and doesn't let go, long after you've finished it' (Anna Todd,&nbsp;New York Times&nbsp;bestselling author) about a workaholic with a too-good-to-be-true romance can't stop thinking about her first love—soon to be a major motion picture starring Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni." — Hays Public Library2. "FIREFLY LANE"&nbsp; by KRISTIN HANNAHKristin Hannah's 'Firefly Lane' became a touchstone novel in women's lives. Across the world, women embraced the story of Tully and Kate's enduring friendship. They laughed with Tully and cried with Kate and anguished over Tully's fractured relationship with her mother." — Hays Public Library&nbsp;3. "IT STARTS WITH US" by&nbsp;COLLEEN HOOVER — ROMANCE"Lily and her ex-husband, Ryle, have just settled into a civil co-parenting rhythm when she suddenly bumps into her first love, Atlas, again. After nearly two years separated, she is elated that for once, time is on their side, and she immediately says yes when Atlas asks her on a date." — Hays Public Library&nbsp;4. "FLY AWAY" by KRISTIN HANNAH"In 'Fly Away', the second in the Firefly Lane series, Kristin Hannah returns to the world of unforgettable characters and asks the question, How do you hold yourself together when your world has fallen apart? "'Fly Away' is the story of three women who have lost their way and need each other—plus a miracle—to transform their lives. An emotionally complex, heart wrenching novel about love, family, motherhood, loss, and redemption, "Fly Away" reminds us that where there is life, there is hope and where there is love, there is forgiveness." — Hays Public Library5. "THE SEVEN HUSBANDS OF EVELYN HUGO" by TAYLOR JENKINS REID"Aging and reclusive Hollywood movie icon Evelyn Hugo is finally ready to tell the truth about her glamorous and scandalous life. But when she chooses unknown magazine reporter Monique Grant for the job, no one is more astounded than Monique herself. Why her? Why now?" — Hays Public Library6. "BAD SUMMER PEOPLE" by EMMA ROSENBLUM"Emma Rosenblum's 'Bad Summer People'&nbsp; is a whip-smart, propulsive debut about infidelity, backstabbing, and murderous intrigue, set against an exclusive summer haven on Fire Island." — Hays Public Library7. "THE LAST THING HE TOLD ME" by LAURA DAVE — THRILLER"Before Owen Michaels disappears, he smuggles a note to his beloved wife of one year: 'Protect her.' Despite her confusion and fear, Hannah Hall knows exactly to whom the note refers—Owen's sixteen-year-old daughter, Bailey. Bailey, who lost her mother tragically as a child. Bailey, who wants absolutely nothing to do with her new stepmother." — Hays Public Library8. "STORM WATCH" by C.J. BOX — MYSTERY"Wyoming Game Warden Joe Pickett investigates a mysterious death at a secret remote high-tech facility."&nbsp;— Hays Public Library9. "VERITY" by COLLEEN HOOVER — THRILLER"Lowen Ashleigh is a struggling writer on the brink of financial ruin when she accepts the job offer of a lifetime. Jeremy Crawford, husband of bestselling author Verity Crawford, has hired Lowen to complete the remaining books in a successful series his injured wife is unable to finish."Lowen arrives at the Crawford home, ready to sort through years of Verity's notes and outlines, hoping to find enough material to get her started. What Lowen doesn't expect to uncover in the chaotic office is an unfinished autobiography Verity never intended for anyone to read. Page after page of bone-chilling admissions, including Verity's recollection of the night her family was forever altered." — Hays Public Library10. "REMINDERS OF HIM" by COLLEEN HOOVER"After serving five years in prison for a tragic mistake, Kenna Rowan returns to the town where it all went wrong, hoping to reunite with her four-year-old daughter. But the bridges Kenna burned are proving impossible to rebuild. Everyone in her daughter's life is determined to shut Kenna out, no matter how hard she works to prove herself." — Hays Public Library

🎙 Royalty, romance make Hays Public Library top books of 2023

On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>, Hays Post Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with <a href="https://www.growhays.com/" target="_blank">Grow Hays</a> Executive Director Doug Williams about the Microfactory project.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Grow Hays Microfactory offers business expansion opportunities" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=csqfa-155739a-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>, Hays Post Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with <a href="https://www.growhays.com/" target="_blank">Grow Hays</a> Executive Director Doug Williams about the Microfactory project.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🎙 Post Podcast: Grow Hays Microfactory offers business expansion opportunities

On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/" target="_blank">Hays Arts Council</a> executive director Brenda Meder discusses upcoming events with Hays Post Reporter Becky Kiser.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Hays Arts Council plans upcoming events" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=9ujy3-15574d8-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/" target="_blank">Hays Arts Council</a> executive director Brenda Meder discusses upcoming events with Hays Post Reporter Becky Kiser.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🎙 Post Podcast: Hays Arts Council plans upcoming events

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Fort Hays State University&nbsp;director of Strategic Affiliation Peter Laipson.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WuGGgyH8FQI?si=d3J8je81N3PmbuvT" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Fort Hays State University&nbsp;director of Strategic Affiliation Peter Laipson.

🎤Forward Ever: FHSU director of Strategic Affiliation Peter Laipson

On this episode of the <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>, <a href="http://www.ipifinancialservices.com/" target="_blank">Insurance Planning</a>&nbsp;agent Gene Stramel discusses long-term care insurance with <a href="https://hayspost.com/" target="_blank">Hays Post</a> reporter Becky Kiser.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Insurance Planning helps navigate long term care insurance" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=uw5w6-1554a81-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>, <a href="http://www.ipifinancialservices.com/" target="_blank">Insurance Planning</a>&nbsp;agent Gene Stramel discusses long-term care insurance with <a href="https://hayspost.com/" target="_blank">Hays Post</a> reporter Becky Kiser.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🎙 Post Podcast: Insurance Planning helps navigate long term care insurance

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Kan. 110 District Rep. Ken Rahjes.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: 110 District Rep. Ken Rahjes" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=br6zm-1541579-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Kan. 110 District Rep. Ken Rahjes.

🎤Forward Ever: Kan. 110 District Rep. Ken Rahjes

On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Post reporter Becky Kiser speaks with United Way of Ellis County Executive Director Erica Berges about the ongoing fundraising campaign and upcoming events.

<div><iframe title="United Way fundraising campaign underway" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=d23j6-1538d74-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Post reporter Becky Kiser speaks with United Way of Ellis County Executive Director Erica Berges about the ongoing fundraising campaign and upcoming events.

🎙 Post Podcast: United Way fundraising campaign underway

By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a>&nbsp;and CRISTINA JANNEY Kansas Reflector/Hays Post

TOPEKA — Growth in the market value of goods and services produced in Kansas from July to September was tops in the nation and expanded by 9.7 percent during that three-month period, the federal Bureau of Economic Analysis reported.

All 50 states and the District of Columbia increased real gross domestic product during the third quarter, but Kansas outpaced the rest of the country. By comparison, GDP growth in Missouri registered at 4 percent while rates in the three other neighboring states surged by 5.8 percent in Colorado, 6 percent in Oklahoma and 7.5 percent in Nebraska. Arkansas recorded the quarter’s lowest level of growth at 0.7 percent.

“This data shows that our efforts to support businesses, create a stable economy and grow our workforce are paying off,” said Gov. Laura Kelly.

Ellis County had the highest GDP percentage increase in the state for 2023, said Doug Williams, Grow Hays executive director.

Ellis County had a 5 percent growth in gross domestic product in 2023 compared to 2022. The data comes from the Wichita State University Center for Economic Development and Research.

"I believe we know things have been good in Ellis County and continue to be," Williams said. "I think if people would turn off the national news and the negative information they get there and look locally, it would be a very positive perspective."

Williams listed several economic high points including housing construction in Hays, new schools, new buildings and a handful of new businesses opening in just the last quarter.&nbsp;

"I think most of the local businesses are doing pretty well," Williams said.&nbsp;

Unemployment in Ellis County remains extremely low. In November, the jobless rate dipped to 1.3 percent.

"The biggest challenge Ellis County businesses have is workforce," Williams said. "The ability to find a workforce and retain a workforce is a challenge and has resulted in the cost of labor going up. It's not necessarily a good situation for the business owner, but it's great for the employees."

Increased wages, in some cases, have allowed employees to keep up with inflation, Williams said.

He said he thinks the Ellis County economy will continue to be strong in 2024. He said he thought 2023 will reflect record sales tax collection for the city of Hays.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4b0833de-8582-4800-b0ce-7f4ea9baf6d7">The Grow Hays microfactory is set to open in February. </a>Work will continue on the Hays USD 489 school bond projects, including the construction of a new high school. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5b605d19-50a6-448c-90b0-627df8c9bdec">The community center for The Grove housing addition is set to start in 2024.&nbsp;</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703780956907.jpeg" alt="The federal Bureau of Economic Analysis says growth in the market value of goods and services produced in Kansas from July to September was tops in the nation and expanded by 9.7 percent during the three-month period. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>The federal Bureau of Economic Analysis says growth in the market value of goods and services produced in Kansas from July to September was tops in the nation and expanded by 9.7 percent during the three-month period. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a>&nbsp;and CRISTINA JANNEY Kansas Reflector/Hays Post TOPEKA — Growth in the market value of goods and services produced in Kansas from July to September was tops in the nation and expanded by 9.7 percent during that three-month period, the federal Bureau of Economic Analysis reported.<div><iframe title="Ellis County reports highest GDP growth in Kansas in 2023" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=jvmpp-1537c10-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>All 50 states and the District of Columbia increased real gross domestic product during the third quarter, but Kansas outpaced the rest of the country. By comparison, GDP growth in Missouri registered at 4 percent while rates in the three other neighboring states surged by 5.8 percent in Colorado, 6 percent in Oklahoma and 7.5 percent in Nebraska. Arkansas recorded the quarter’s lowest level of growth at 0.7 percent.“This data shows that our efforts to support businesses, create a stable economy and grow our workforce are paying off,” said Gov. Laura Kelly.Ellis County had the highest GDP percentage increase in the state for 2023, said Doug Williams, Grow Hays executive director.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703781951685.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Ellis County had a 5 percent growth in gross domestic product in 2023 compared to 2022. The data comes from the Wichita State University Center for Economic Development and Research."I believe we know things have been good in Ellis County and continue to be," Williams said. "I think if people would turn off the national news and the negative information they get there and look locally, it would be a very positive perspective."Williams listed several economic high points including housing construction in Hays, new schools, new buildings and a handful of new businesses opening in just the last quarter.&nbsp;"I think most of the local businesses are doing pretty well," Williams said.&nbsp;Unemployment in Ellis County remains extremely low. In November, the jobless rate dipped to 1.3 percent."The biggest challenge Ellis County businesses have is workforce," Williams said. "The ability to find a workforce and retain a workforce is a challenge and has resulted in the cost of labor going up. It's not necessarily a good situation for the business owner, but it's great for the employees."Increased wages, in some cases, have allowed employees to keep up with inflation, Williams said.He said he thinks the Ellis County economy will continue to be strong in 2024. He said he thought 2023 will reflect record sales tax collection for the city of Hays.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4b0833de-8582-4800-b0ce-7f4ea9baf6d7">The Grow Hays microfactory is set to open in February. </a>Work will continue on the Hays USD 489 school bond projects, including the construction of a new high school. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5b605d19-50a6-448c-90b0-627df8c9bdec">The community center for The Grove housing addition is set to start in 2024.&nbsp;</a>The Bureau of Economic Analysis reported Kansas had real GDP expansion of 7.4 percent in the second quarter from April through June. Overall, 44 states and District of Columbia were on the plus side in that quarter ranging from a positive 8.7 percent in Wyoming to a negative 1.4 percent in Vermont.The border states to Kansas featured advances and a setback in real GDP during the second quarter. Growth in Nebraska came in at 5.9 percent while Oklahoma was at 4.5 percent and Colorado at 2.6 precent. Missouri slumped to a minus 0.1 percent.In the first quarter of 2023, Nebraska topped the five-state region at 12.3 percent growth in real GDP from January to March. The other states: Kansas, 6 percent; Missouri, 2.6 percent; Oklahoma, 2.5 percent and Colorado, 1.9 percent. Each state and the District of Columbia grew in the first quarter and the spread nationally had North Dakota at a positive 12.4 percent and Rhode Island and Alabama at a plus 0.1 percent.“Now, Kansas is outstripping the entire nation in economic growth and attracting business investment,” Kelly said on Wednesday. “It’s clear we have the momentum to continue this trajectory of economic success into 2024 and beyond.”Meanwhile, Kansas recorded the third-ranked growth in personal income at 4.9 percent during the third quarter. Farming income contributed to the state’s improvement in personal income during the period.